Fisterre: The End of the Earth

Early morning in Cee on our way to Fisterre

Marker a la Antonio Gaudi

The 'end of the earth' is in sight.

The ocean's clear turquoise color 

Our Albergue Do Mar, located right on the water

At Fisterre's municipal albergue we received certificates, or "Finisterranas," for completing the route from Santiago to Fisterre. It's a document similar to the Compostella we received on out first Camino -- walkers need to complete at least the last 100 kilometers into the city in order to get a Compostela. 

After receiving our certificates, we walked to the lighthouse, or faro, which marks the end of the route and to where the ancients thought was the 'end of the earth.' It was a 3.5 kilometer hike (over 2 miles) up there in hot temperatures with intense sunlight.

Joining us on the walk to the faro were Anne and her son, Seattlites who trekked from Santiago to Fisterre and may come back to walk more of the Camino. They live in my old Seattle neighborhood, Wallingford.

The last Camino marker -- "0,00 K.M." 

Adjacent to the faro was a Peace Pole from 

the International Peace Project.

Behind the faro there's a monument to pilgrims -- it's where walkers burn clothes, etc. signifying the end of the journey or the cleansing that the Camino has brought (the burn pile is on the right). We opted not to contribute anything because our clothes will be needed for the rest of the trip! Also, although burning gear is a relatively new tradition, it may not be environmentally friendly.

Dad posed with Ho, a walker from S. Korea whom we met along the Road and then saw again at the lighthouse. Lots of walkers have gathered here during the last days of their journeys.

The water beckoned from the albergue's balcony.

Dad took a refreshing dip in the ocean.

On the playa there were many sunbathing walkers and tourists.

At the albergue we relaxed on the balcony and ate Indian food made by walker Haiyan from New Orleans. Pictured with Dad is our Swedish 'cuz' Sandra-Maria Lindquist plus walkers from England. 

Comparing shells collected on the beach

Later, dinner was at a nearby cafe, and then we packed our bags to get ready for the hike to Muxia in the morning.